What are the Benefits of Using Cod Liver Oil for Dogs?

dog sitting in front of flower bed

What are the benefits of cod liver oil for dogs?

This healthy oil may help reduce joint pain and lead to a healthier and shiny coat.

Your pet deserves a healthy and nutritious diet to support growth and vitality.

In the past, the canine diet consisted of a variety of natural, unprocessed foods.  Unfortunately, with the convenience of processed pet foods, we may not be giving our favorite companions all the nutrients they need for optimal health.

One of the items high the list of missing nutrients may be omega 3 fatty acids.

 Omega 3’s are special fats that help support a healthy cellular environment and have been found to fight inflammation.

Your dog’s food may contain adequate levels of omega-6 fats from vegetable oils, but are you giving enough omega 3’s for your dog?

If not, you may need to need to supplement with a high quality omega 3 supplement, such as cod liver oil.

Importance of Omega 3 to Omega 6 Ratios

Research has shown humans should strive for a ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 of 1:1 in their diets.

On the other hand, veterinarians recommend a ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 of 5:1 to 10:1 in dogs.

Cod liver oil contains the essential fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

These nutritious fats provide the framework for growing a healthy skin and coat, flexible joints, strong heart, sharp eyesight and youthful energy.

Inf fact, studies indicate that using cod liver oil for joint pain may help lessen the enzymes that destroy joint cartilage as well as decrease morning stiffness and swollen joints.

Health Benefits of Giving Fish Oil to Dogs

Cod liver oil is a natural fish oil that provides the omega 3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, as well as naturally occurring levels of Vitamin A and D.

The omega 3’s in cod liver oil supports:

  • joint health
  • cardiovascular health
  • skin and coat health
  • visual development
  • brain health
  • energy production
  • anti-inflammatory environment

Vitamin A in cod liver oil supports:

  • vision health
  • growth
  • immune system

Vitamin D in cod liver oil supports:

  • bone and joint health
  • phosphorus and calcium balance for healthy bone cells
  • muscle contractions

Choosing the Best Cod Liver Oil for Dogs

Your pet’s health may benefit from supplementation with a cod liver oil product.

There are a few companies that produce specialized products made specifically for dogs and cats.

two bottles of nordic naturals cod liver oil for dogs

Nordic Naturals is a Norwegian company that has a large line of fish products for dogs and cats. They have been producing these specialty products for the last 20 years.

They claim that all of their fish oil products go through extensive third-party testing to ensure there are no detectable levels of heavy metals, environmental toxins and other contaminants.

They claim to use fish from only the cleanest ocean waters. This is to ensure you’re getting a fresh, pure fish oil that won’t cause fishy burps, won’t become rancid, or have a bad taste.

They have a cod liver oil specifically made for pets called Nordic Naturals Pet Cod Liver Oil for Cats & Dogs.

 To ensure these are safe for your pet, they don’t come flavored with rosemary or other flavorings that can be found in many other omega 3 supplements.

Here’s what you get in a bottle of Nordic Naturals Cod Liver Oil for Pets:

One teaspoon dose provides:

  • Derived from 100% Arctic cod
  • 625 mg DHA
  • 410 mg EPA
  • 225 mg other omega 3 fatty acids
  • Vitamin E – 7 iu
  • Vitamin A – 450 iu minimum
  • Vitamin D – 2 iu

Suggested Cod Liver Oil Dosages for Your Pets:

Cats: 1/4 teaspoon daily

Dogs: 0 – 20 lbs – 1/4 teaspoon

20 – 55 lbs – 1/2 teaspoon

over 55 lbs – 1 teaspoon

Directions for Use: Apply oil directly to food or serve by itself.

I think this is a really good product to use for your dog or cat. You can get it 8 oz and 16 oz bottles and Suggested Retail prices are $19.99 for the 8 oz bottle and $39.99 for the 16 oz size.

If you shop around, you may find them at cheaper prices, both online and in your local pet food store.

Using cod liver oil for dogs is a great way to nourish and fortify your favorite companion’s health.

Good nutrition and a loving home is all you need to keep your dog healthy and happy.

Please remember to consult with your dog’s veterinarian before using cod liver oil.

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